North Shore City Art Awards Raises the Bar Even Higher

Christopher Johnstone and Di Smallfield, judges for the North Shore City Art Awards 2008, were very impressed by the high standard of artworks, making special mention that the entries are getting stronger with every year. Artworks came from all over NZ with 83 finalists selected. This is certainly an event to keep an even closer eye on in the coming years.

Once again the Mairangi Art Centre created a fabulous opening night with live Jazz and over 150 people attending. North Shore City Mayor, Andrew Williams, officially opened the Art Awards and was particularly taken with the winning artwork by Barbara von Seida – Stony Bay Coromandel.

The judges felt the winning artwork included a wide range of painting conventions such as confident media application, a selective and complimentary palette, high viewpoint and an asymmetrical strength to the composition. Added to this was that the artwork epitomized the qualities of a contemporary context and the risk-taking they were looking for.

The artworks are diverse and eclectic ranging from traditional oils to contemporary mixed media. It’s a must see exhibition and is at the Mairangi Art Centre, Hastings Rd, Mairangi Bay, Auckland until November 15th.

Congratulations to all the award winners who also receive an annual subscription to the NZ Art Guild.

Factory Frame Merit Award - $500
Sue Collins – Moutere Coromandel

Laurie Coon Merit Awards - $500
Dana Rose – Out of the Mist

Comworth Systems Merit Awards - $500
Jos Coufruer - Children

Runner Up - Gordon Harris Award - $1000
Janet Williamson – Summer Sunshine

Winner -North Shore City Council Premier Award 2008 - $4000
Barbara von Seida - Stony Bay Coromandel.

The Bunnings Warehouse Peoples Choice Award of $500 will be announced at the end of the exhibition on November 15 - so make sure that you cast your vote for your favourite artwork.